How do you reach Nirvana?

Nirvana is a term used to describe the profound peace of mind that is acquired with liberation. It is the state of being free from suffering.

The word literally means "blown out" (as in a candle) and refers, in the Buddhist context, to the imperturbable stillness of mind after the fires of desire, aversion, and delusion have been finally extinguished. (loosely quoting Wikipedia here...)

So...I'm curious if you all believe that Atheists as a general rule are able to reach this level of liberation? Do you think it's possible for Theists to do so? Do you believe that all/most Atheists reach Nirvana? How do you know when you've reached it? Once you've reached it how do you know you'll be able to stay there? Is it just in your mind or is there more to it? What could be a scientific explanation for the state of Nirvana?....Do you believe that Nirvana is attached to any kind of religious dogma since it's roots are found in Buddhism? Isn't Buddhism a religion? If not, then why not. If you believe Nirvana is rubbish, then tell me why.

Seriously, I'm not sure if anyone here has read Dr. Rick Strassman's book on DMT titled "DMT: The Spirit Molecule," but he has some interesting speculations. That what meditation may be is the natural induction of endogenous N,N-DMT.

And isn't it peculiar that the experience of DMT as in the case of ayahuasca is closely described as the various mental states in eastern religions, such as samadhi, nirvana, satori, etc.?

I believe it's very plausible that this may be, in fact, the case and what may be going on during these colossal meditative altered states of consciousness.